Manhunt ongoing for suspect who killed Melvindale Police officer in line of duty, $37K reward for info leading to arrest

MELVINDALE (WWJ)— Michigan State Police and other law enforcement are still searching Monday for an “armed and dangerous" suspect, accused of shooting and killing a Melvindale Police officer in the line of duty.

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office said the manhunt began after the suspect shot and killed officer Mohamed Said in the area of Dix and Oakwood around 11:40 a.m. Sunday.

WWJ's Charlie Langton reports a neighbor in Melvindale captured the suspect on a home security camera, as he threw his gun in a gutter and ran through the neighborhood moments after the shooting.

In a statement , Melvindale Police identified the suspect as 44-year-old Michael Lopez. They deemed him “armed and dangerous," and asked the public to be on the lookout.

Lopez is described as 6'1'' tall, and weighing 245 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes.

“If you see this suspect or anyone closely resembling the suspect, please do not approach or confront,” police said in the statement. “Immediately call 911 and inform the police.”

In a statement on Twitter, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF Detroit) added that the suspect has "numerous tattoos", a goatee, and was last seen wearing black pants and no shirt. He left the scene on a "green mountain bike," they said.

The ATF Detroit, Michigan State Police, Melvindale Police and other partners are joining forces to offer a $37,500 reward for information leading to Lopez's arrest.

Tips can be submitted to Melvindale police at 313-429-1070 or the ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS.

In a post on Facebook, Dearborn Police Chief Shahin described Officer Said as “a kind soul who proudly served the residents of Melvindale.”

Hamtramck City Councilman Khalil Refai remembered his friend of over ten years as “always respectful” and “determined to make a difference.”

According to Refai, Officer Said graduated from the police academy only last year.

Dearborn Heights Mayor Bill Bazzi said he was “an energetic dedicated young man, who was known for his engaging smile while serving and protecting the community.”

Said is the third Michigan Police officer killed in the line of duty in the past month.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 on air, online, and on the Audacy app for the latest information.